Bill > S0870

This bill modifies Florida's existing law on termination of pregnancies by prohibiting physicians from performing an abortion when they determine that a fetus is viable (capable of surviving outside the womb through standard medical measures). The bill removes the previous 6-week gestational limit and maintains three primary exceptions for terminating a pregnancy: (1) when two physicians certify in writing that the termination is necessary to save the pregnant woman's life or prevent serious, irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function, (2) in emergency medical situations where a physician determines immediate medical intervention is required to save the woman's life or prevent serious physical impairment, and (3) when two physicians certify that the fetus has a fatal abnormality. Notably, the bill eliminates previous provisions related to pregnancies resulting from rape, incest, or human trafficking, which were previously allowed up to 15 weeks with documentation. The changes to this law will take effect on July 1, 2025, and represent a significant restriction on abortion access in Florida by focusing on fetal viability as the key determining factor for when an abortion can be performed.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/870